Our Creative Future: A shared vision for culture in Hampshire and The Solent

Join creatives, practitioners, arts and heritage partners, policy and decision makers from across Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton for a time of sharing and agenda setting at a pivotal moment for our region.

This event is a chance for our creative community to come together and better understand the potential opportunities within a new Mayoral Combined County Authority. Building on work already undertaken across Hampshire and the Solent, attendees will be presented with an overview of the views shared so far on this journey and have an opportunity to respond to the emerging grassroots vision for culture.

We’ll hear from political and sector leaders, including those who are ahead of us on the journey to champion culture in devolved authorities. Breakout sessions will draw out themes and opportunities from across places and disciplines so that the region’s cultural and creative sectors can speak with one voice.

Together, we can ensure that arts, culture, creativity and heritage are not just part of the conversation, but central to the vision for a new, confident and inclusive future.

FAQs

Do I need to have attended one of the previous consultation events?

No, outcomes from previous consultation events will be shared in this forum, and there will be opportunities for all attendees to reflect and build on these outcomes.

When will the full programme be announced?

The full programme, including speakers and timings for the day, and arrangements for online participants will be announced in early November.

How many tickets can I book?

Places for in-person attendees are limited so we have capped tickets to one representative from each group or organisation. However, the event will also be live-streamed, and there is no limit on the number of tickets you can book as a digital attendee.

Do I need to be there for the whole time?

In-person attendees are encouraged to stay for the full event and make the most of opportunities to hear the guest speakers and spend time in break out groups. The timings for the day have been set to align to the timetable for travel to and from the Isle of Wight via ferry.

Is lunch provided?

Lunch is provided for in-person attendees. Dietary requirements will be captured at point of booking.

What is the best way to travel to the event?

We would encourage in-person attendees to consider active and public transport option. Portsmouth Guildhall is accessible via train and bus, including park and ride, as well as car and ferry.

How accessible is the venue?

The in-person gathering is taking place at The Lens Studio at Portsmouth Guildhall. There is step-free access to The Lens Studio where the event will be hosted. There are accessible toilets throughout the building, and a hearing induction loop is also available. A full access guide and visual story are available on the venue website.

How is the event funded?

This event is jointly funded by the cultural development agencies working across Hampshire and The Solent: Creative Island, Culture Connects, Portsmouth Creates and Southampton Forward.